Basic Traffic Safety Rules

The number one rule in traffic is: Don't speed! This is true for all road users, not just motorcyclists. It's a no brainer, but there are too many drivers who think they can get away with it. Speeding is dangerous and the only people who think this is acceptable are the ones that don't have to cross lanes or aren't in a hurry.

The next traffic rule is: Don't text and drive! There is nothing more irritating than listening to an innocent fellow talk on his cell phone as he drives down the road. Text messaging while driving has caused a significant rise in accidents. One person died recently in an accident that was text messaged while driving. Many other people have been seriously injured and some have even lost their lives.

The third traffic rule you need to follow is: Don't text while driving. I know it is tempting, especially while on the freeway, but you have to resist. If you really want to text, make sure you turn your phone off or block out the view of the phone. I also recommend getting into the habit of pulling over and not talking on your cell phone unless necessary. I have a friend whose grandmother would never let her talk on her cell phone while she was driving. Every time she did, her grandmother would get out of the car and chastise her for being a distraction.

Don't drink and drive! Of course, this goes without saying. But it is surprising how often people ignore this one traffic rule. If you are drinking and driving, you are putting yourself and everyone else on the road at risk. The effects of alcohol on the body are still being studied, but we do know that it tends to increase your awareness and attention span, two things that can affect your judgment when driving.

The final traffic tip is to avoid any situation where you have to give way. Do not merge into traffic without first clearing the space required for merging. Even when traffic is moving slowly, do not cut across lanes or take shortcuts through traffic. You may be safer doing so at a safe distance from traffic. As a rule, do not make any sudden movements that could cause an accident.

It is impossible to mention every traffic rule there is, but these are the basic ones. Keep in mind that most traffic rules don't care about your emotion, your appearance or your background. They only care about following the law and staying responsible. Make sure you keep those things in mind and you will be just fine when drivingin traffic.